I. ˈpraŋk, -ai- transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English pranken
obsolete : to make pleats in : fold
II. intransitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: origin unknown
1. dialect chiefly England : prance
2. obsolete : to play tricks maliciously or in the performance of magic
3. : to play pranks : cut up : frolic
III. noun
( -s )
: trick:
a. obsolete : a malicious or harmful act
b. archaic : a spell or act of magic or conjuring : a bit of sleight of hand
c. : a gay or sportive action : a ludicrous or mildly mischievous act frolic , caper , practical joke
sent the child's painting to the academy as a prank
IV. verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: probably from Dutch pronken to strut, show off, get dressed up, from Middle Dutch; akin to Middle Low German prunken to strut, show off, Middle High German ge brunkel glitter of metal
transitive verb
1. : to adorn in a gay or showy manner : dress or equip ostentatiously
pranked herself out in her best
2. : adorn , deck , spangle
flowers pranking the meadow
— often used with with
a book pranked with pretty fancies
intransitive verb
: to make ostentatious show